HR Generalist

Newton Public Schools•Newton, MA

About The Position

The Human Resources Generalist provides confidential personnel support to Newton Public Schools employees, school leaders, and district administrators. The Generalist coordinates assigned HR processes from hire through separation, maintains accurate personnel records, and supports employee relations. The role requires independent judgment, discretion, and the ability to accurately capture sensitive discussions in real time. The position supports recruitment and hiring, assists employees with applicant-tracking systems, and ensures accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance in HR data management. It also supports HR functions as assigned and coordinates confidential meeting documentation and employee-relations processes under the direction of HR leadership. Work is primarily performed in an office setting and involves regular computer use, records review, and attendance at in-person and virtual meetings. Occasional travel to district locations may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

Associate degree and at least three years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, personnel administration, or a related role; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Experience working with applicant tracking systems.
Strong attention to detail, accuracy, confidentiality, organization, and communication skills.
Proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Office (Word and Excel), spreadsheets, word processing, and HR information systems.
Ability to take accurate, organized notes in real time using shorthand, rapid typing, structured notes, or another effective method, and to prepare clear written records promptly.
Strong written and verbal communication, sound judgment, and ability to handle sensitive personnel, medical, and labor-relations information.
Working knowledge of personnel records, onboarding, leave administration, and payroll coordination.
Ability to work effectively with employees and families across racial, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds and support the district’s commitment to equity and anti-racism.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, public administration, or a related field.
Experience in a public school district, municipal agency, or unionized workplace.
Prior experience in K–12 school district human resources.
Knowledge of state and federal employment laws and regulations (training will be provided).
Familiarity with Munis (training will be provided).
Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements and Massachusetts public school licensure and reporting (training will be provided).

Responsibilities

Assist with posting positions, screening applications, and tracking candidate status.
Generate and review systems to support recruitment and hiring processes.
Provide technical assistance to staff using the applicant tracking system.
Ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance in HR data management.
Support other HR functions as assigned by the Director of Human Resources.
Capture material statements, questions and responses, decisions, and follow-up actions in real time during confidential meetings.
Attribute statements to the correct speaker and distinguish direct quotations from paraphrases.
Prepare timely, objective meeting notes or summaries for HR leadership.
Securely maintain notes and related materials, limit access to authorized personnel, and follow district procedures for retention and use of documentation tools.
Coordinate meeting logistics, gather records, prepare draft correspondence, and track deadlines and next steps under the direction of HR leadership.
Manage competing deadlines, respond professionally to employees and administrators, and collaborate with colleagues across schools and departments.